Cr Darren Cameron said the decision was incorrectly made by a “star chamber” of the mayor and deputy mayor Amanda Cohn and instead should have been made by the council.

The approach by the Howlong Community Committee to make a presentation next month was made last week and ruled out by Cr Mack before the council meeting on Monday.

“This is not a decision that should have been arbitrarily made or made by some star chamber consisting of the mayor and deputy mayor on the very afternoon we have a full council meeting,” Cr Cameron said.

“It's not acceptable behaviour in my view.

“This project is being generated by a contract of this council with Cleanaway.

“We can't wash our hands of it.”

Cr Cameron said he intended to move a notice of motion next month to allow the Howlong group to make the presentation.

Cr Mack said a precedent on the Cleanaway proposal existed when a similar approach was made by a group opposing the Gerogery location and was ultimately rejected.

“One thing this council group has been over the last four or five years is consistent and fair,” he said.

Cr Mack said he took full responsibility for the call and no blame should be directed at Cr Cohn.

Cr David Thurley rebuked Cr Cameron for his use of the term “star chamber”.

“I would find that offensive if it were me,” he said.

Howlong Community Committee member and former Corowa Shire deputy mayor Mark Shields watched the debate unfold on Albury's maiden webcast.

He said the request was reasonable given Albury Council had undergone some significant personnel changes since Cleanaway's failed bid to establish the compost dump at Gerogery.

“There is no reason to be afraid of us,” he said.

“Cleanaway has made representations to council on this proposal and all we're asking for is equal time.”